Extended Project Qualification

As part of our Challenge Programme all students in CAST Sixth Form complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Students are given considerable time in college for this and are assigned a personal mentor who will work with them throughout their project, they will also have extensive experience of working on projects before they start. The EPQ develops, or extends, a variety of skills by allowing students to complete a project of their choice, either developing a subject they are already studying, or in an area that is of particular personal interest. It also provides an opportunity to complete something entirely new. 

These are skills that are particularly useful for students as they move on to university, apprenticeship and work. The qualification carries UCAS points and every year we have a number of students who gain university places as a result of this. Furthermore, a number of universities offer reduced entry offers to students with relevant EPQs and some also offer financial bursaries. The experience is also useful in demonstrating skills for those applying for apprenticeships and work.

Students really relish the opportunity to develop a project of their choice and take something that interests them to a higher level.

Assessment

Projects are marked according to their planning, execution, student development and evaluation. This is assessed through the submission of the final report/dissertation, reflective diary, evaluation, presentation and planning documents. We follow the OCR specification for EPQ.